Hockey’s Future spoke with him briefly at the U-18 tournament in Minsk in April before final round.
HF: What do you think about the tournament, the rink, the fans and the ice?
AB: It has a really good tournament. Fans have been really good to us. It has a big rink and a wonderful arena. It has a good ice, a really good ice.
HF: Have you heard people making comparisons of you and current NHL players?
AB: Actually, not too many. Maybe Keith Primeau and Joe Thornton.
HF: Do you have any expectations for yourself in the 2004 NHL Entry Draft?
AB: For myself I just want to get drafted. It doesn’t matter when. Whatever happens afterwards…
HF: What are your biggest strengths?
AB: I’d say my size, my speed, probably my shot.
HF: What are the areas you still need to improve on?
AB: I’d say my physical play. Maybe my defensive play too.
HF: How would you describe your game?
AB: I’d say I’m power forward. I like to work in the corners and I like to score goals too.
HF: Do you have a favorite player?
AB: Yeah, Joe Thornton is my favorite player.
HF: Off the ice, what a kind of guy are you?
AB: I like to hang out with my friends, play golf and stuff like that.
HF: How much spare time do you get?
AB: During season I don’t get much time but we have lots of time in summer to hang out with my friends and my family. Just get together and have fun.
HF: What do you like to do when you are not playing?
AB: I like golf. Golf is my favorite sport after hockey. I’m just enjoying partying and hanging out with my friends and family.
HF: What does it mean for you to be a part of team Canada?
AB: It’s a great experience for me. I’m so honored to play for the country. I’m just happy to be chosen to play.
